UPDATE: PETA has launched a fierce criticism against Olympic gymnast Simone Biles following her recent decision to acquire a puppy with cropped ears. The animal rights organization shared a striking photo of Biles alongside her husband, Jonathan Owens, an NFL player, and their new dog, igniting backlash over animal welfare concerns.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PETA stated, “Simone Biles could’ve gone for gold by adopting; instead, she fueled the homeless animal crisis by getting a dog, whose ears were cut off, from a breeder.” The organization emphasized the ethical implications of her choice, declaring that “getting a puppy from a greedy breeder & cropping their ears is a routine no one should applaud.”
PETA’s statement has resonated widely, raising urgent questions about animal adoption practices and the responsibilities of public figures like Biles. The group’s remarks highlight a growing concern about the plight of animals in shelters, suggesting that Biles’ actions contradict the values of compassion and advocacy for animal rights.
This controversy comes at a time when animal welfare advocates are pushing for more awareness regarding pet adoption over purchasing from breeders. PETA’s comments aim to spark a dialogue on the importance of rescuing animals rather than contributing to the ongoing homeless animal crisis.
As this story develops, there is significant interest in how Biles will respond to the criticism. Newsweek has reached out to TEAM USA for a comment but has yet to receive a response outside normal working hours.
The situation exemplifies the clash between celebrity culture and ethical responsibility, with many fans and animal lovers now weighing in on social media. Biles, a beloved figure in gymnastics, now faces an urgent moment to clarify her stance on animal welfare and the choices she makes as a public role model.
Stay tuned for further updates as we monitor this developing story.
